Driving through the flames of the San Diego wildfires

Hundreds of San Diego residents were forced to evacuate their homes on Wednesday, May 14, after several wildfires broke out across San Diego County. At least 30 homes were destroyed by the fires in Carlsbad, according to local media reports.

Carlsbad resident Jeb Durgin got a close look at the wildfire while driving through the Pacific coast city. Durgin described this footage as showing the "El Camino Real fire," the name of one of the main roads in Carlsbad very near the fire.

I'm a native Californian (yes, we do exist). As bad as the fires are for the people affected, the media acts like they are unexpected. Hey, Southern California has fires EVERY YEAR! And has had for thousands of years. It's the nature of the beast.

Although my family and I live in another state, I own a very small house in Carlsbad. It's a beautiful. I understand why many Californians choose to stay. Their "disasters" aren't more severe or frequent than the other states.

My first visit was in the 80's when I was in college (a roommate lived there). My roommate (also pre-med) and I chose the same med school. Long story short, my buddy joined a practice near Carlsbad. He purchased a nice home in Carlsbad. On the same tract (very close to the Pacific) was a smaller home. At the time, he couldn't afford it, so, he asked if I'd consider a joint purchase. For smaller sum, I received a nice plot of land with a nice little home. My family and I use it as a vacation home.

There's a difference between "East" and "West" Coasters. One is not better (just different "vibes"). To me, "West Coasters" are less "stuffy".

In the summer, that little area is generally much cooler than other areas of Ca.Thankfully, our properties weren't affected

This isone of themany reasons you should never live in California. Ridiculous taxes, Ridiculous cost of living,horrible schools, overpopulated, ridiculous laws, no jobs and high crime and pollution. Worst state in the union.